Types of Residency in Turkey
Turkey offers several types of residency permits for foreign nationals, including:
Short-term Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who plan to stay in Turkey for a period of up to one year can apply for a short-term residence permit. This permit is renewable and is suitable for individuals who plan to study, work, or visit the country for other reasons. The application process can be initiated in Turkey or abroad. However, the application must be completed within 30 days of arrival in the country.
Family Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who have family members with Turkish citizenship or a valid residence permit can apply for a family residence permit. This permit allows them to stay in Turkey for up to two years and can be renewed. Family members who are eligible include spouses, children, and parents.
Long-term Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who have lived in Turkey legally for eight years without leaving the country for more than 180 days in a year can apply for a long-term residence permit. This permit allows them to stay in Turkey indefinitely, as long as they meet certain conditions.
Student Residence Permit
Foreign students who plan to study at a Turkish university or higher education institution can apply for a student residence permit. This permit is valid for the duration of their studies.
Work Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who plan to work in Turkey can apply for a work residence permit. This permit is issued for a period of one year and is renewable.
Humanitarian Residence Permit
Foreign nationals who are seeking refuge in Turkey due to circumstances beyond their control can apply for a humanitarian residence permit. This permit is issued for a period of one year and is renewable.
Applying for Residency in Turkey
To apply for a residency permit in Turkey, foreign nationals must submit an application to the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate or to the Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) in Turkey. The application process involves the following steps:
Gather the required documents: To apply for a residency permit, foreign nationals must gather the required documents, including a valid passport, a residence permit application form, and a biometric photo.
Complete the application form: The application form must be completed in full and submitted along with the required documents.
Pay the fee: A fee must be paid for the residency permit application, and the fee amount may vary depending on the type of permit being applied for.
Attend an appointment: Foreign nationals may need to attend an appointment at a Turkish embassy or consulate, or at the DGMM in Turkey, to submit their application and provide biometric data.
Wait for the decision: After the application is submitted, the DGMM will review the application and make a decision. This process can take up to 90 days.
Required Documents
To support their application for residency in Turkey, foreign nationals will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A residence permit application form
- A biometric photo
- A criminal record check
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of accommodation
Registration
Foreign nationals who arrive in Turkey must register with the local authorities within 30 days of arrival. This process involves obtaining a residence permit and a tax identification number, registering with the local police station, and obtaining a health insurance policy.
Information Resources
For reliable, up-to-date information on residency in Turkey, individuals can consult the official website of the General Directorate of Migration Management: (https://goc.gov.tr/).